Theme of 1 Thessalonians 4: We are called to distinct lives that pursue holiness and please God. Key Idea: The goal of purity is finding true and lasting satisfaction in Christ. I. A Distinct Purpose: To Please God (v. 1-3a) II. A Distinct Practice: To Pursue Holiness (v. 3b-5) III. A Distinct Power: Trust in the Holy Spirit (v. 6-8)

I. Paul’s view of satisfaction II. Paul’s view on sovereignty III. Paul’s view on sanctification

Key idea: Paul’s comfort models faith in God established by sound theology and doctrine and sanctified by application of truth to our lives in the face of fierce opposition from the world

I. We are a Christ-centered family (v. 17) II. We have active affections for one another (v. 17-18) III. We are a picture of God’s grace (v. 19-20)

I. The Process of Faith: God-Powered transformation (v. 13) II. The Product of Faith: A counter-cultural Life (v.14-16)

Key Idea: We desperately need to move towards gospel-centered discipleship.

Key idea: The Gospel message is true and is demonstrated in lives driven by God in the face of opposition. I. The Proof of the Gospel II. The Truth of the Gospel

Three reminders that fuel a radical devotion to Christ: I. A radical love II. A radical transformation III. A radical call

Three foundational attributes in the steadfast Christian life: I. A faith that works II. A love that labors III. A hope that endures